Latrobe River Campground: Free Forest Camping near Powelltown

Escape into the majestic mountain ash forests of the Yarra State Forest at the Latrobe River Campground, a serene and secluded free camping area perfect for a true bush getaway. Located near the historic timber town of Powelltown, this beautiful campground is set on the grassy banks of the upper Latrobe River. It’s a place of immense natural beauty, where towering trees create a stunning canopy and the gentle sounds of the river provide a tranquil soundtrack for your stay. The campground offers a number of dispersed, informal sites, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet away from the crowds.

This is a fantastic destination for self-sufficient campers who love a back-to-basics experience. The facilities are simple, consisting of a non-flush toilet and several wood fire pits perfect for a classic campfire evening. As a state forest campground, it is a wonderful pet-friendly option, allowing you to bring your dog along to explore the forest trails. Access is via unsealed forest roads, which are generally manageable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather but can become slippery and challenging after rain, making a 4WD a safer option. The river itself is a highlight, offering shallow areas for a refreshing paddle on a warm day and the chance to spot local wildlife, including platypus for those who are patient and quiet. Campers must come fully prepared, bringing all their own drinking water, firewood, and supplies, and are required to take all rubbish with them. For a peaceful, free, and pet-friendly base to explore the rich timber history and natural wonders of the Yarra Ranges, the Latrobe River Campground is a hidden gem.

Campground Information

• Name: Latrobe River Campground
• Address: Latrobe River Road, Powelltown, VIC 3797, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.88241968918939, 145.89108523842097
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no dedicated site).

Features & Facilities

• Location: Secluded forest setting on the Latrobe River in Yarra State Forest.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and small off-road camper trailers.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest roads. 2WD accessible with care in dry weather, 4WD recommended.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits apply.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilet, fire pits, picnic tables.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own or treat river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a non-flush toilet is available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated pits, subject to fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: A small number of dispersed, unmarked sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, food, rubbish bags, and a portable toilet if preferred.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in the Latrobe River.
• Short Walks: Access to the Latrobe River Walk and other forest trails.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Powelltown Hotel – approx. 15 km
  • The Independent (Gembrook) – approx. 40 km
  • Noojee Hotel – approx. 30 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Powelltown Sawmill Cafe – approx. 15 km
  • The Outpost (Noojee) – approx. 30 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Powelltown Tramway Walk
  • Ada Tree (giant Mountain Ash)
  • Noojee Trestle Bridge

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Powelltown Caravan Park – approx. 15 km
  • Gembrook Caravan Park – approx. 40 km
  • BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park (Healesville) – approx. 60 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Starling Gap Campground (4WD access)
  • Kurth Kiln Scout Loop Camping Area
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Pakenham Public Dump Point – approx. 55 km
  • Yarra Junction Public Dump Point – approx. 40 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Powelltown or Noojee.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Powelltown or Noojee.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Also in Powelltown.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days with mild evenings. Ideal for exploring the forest. Average maximums are around 25°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights. The forest colours are spectacular. Average maximums range from 15°C to 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often wet days with cold nights. Tracks can be very muddy. Average maximums are around 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days as the forest comes alive with new growth. Average maximums range from 15°C to 20°C.